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What's the difference between 1080p and 1080i?

The difference lies in how the display lines are scanned. While both resolution standards display 1080 vertical lines, with 1080i the lines are "interlaced" - meaning the odd-numbered lines are painted on the screen first followed by the even-numbered lines. With 1080p, the lines are displayed consecutively in a single pass, as opposed to the odd-numbered lines alternating with the even-numbered lines.

1080p delivers a picture that's smoother and cleaner. In fact, no HDTV standard surpasses 1080p in terms of picture quality. Furthermore, DIRECTV broadcasts in a 1080p format called 1080p24, which is optimal for movies, to give you a cinematic experience in the comfort of your living room.

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